Irish Mum Urges Women to Join 6km Run for Hospital Fundraiser

UPDATE: An Irish mother is urgently calling on women to participate in a 6km run to support the hospital that saved her life after a severe blood disorder diagnosis. Lynn McCarthy, from Carrigaline, spent a harrowing month at Cork University Hospital (CUH), recovering from aplastic anaemia, a rare condition that leaves the body unable to produce blood cells.

Lynn’s health crisis began in April last year when she noticed unusual bruising on her legs and experienced extreme fatigue. Initially attributing her symptoms to her busy lifestyle, she received shocking news from her GP just hours after a blood test. “I had to be immediately admitted,” she recalled, detailing the anxiety of leaving her two schoolgirls behind.

At CUH, doctors conducted extensive blood tests, initially suspecting leukaemia. “My blood was like water, it wouldn’t clot,” Lynn said. Her diagnosis of aplastic anaemia meant she was at risk of internal bleeding, requiring urgent treatment that included blood transfusions. “I can’t thank people enough for the countless pints of blood they donated until the doctors figured out what was wrong with me,” she expressed with gratitude.

Almost 18 months later, Lynn has regained her health and is now set to participate in the Echo 6km Women’s Mini Marathon on September 21, 2023. She is rallying fellow runners and walkers to register for the event at echolive.ie/minimarathon/ to raise funds for CUH Charity. “They are people I’ll remember for the rest of my life,” she said of the medical staff, including consultant haematologist Vitaliy Mykytiv and Professor Mary Cahill, who played pivotal roles in her care.

“This was such a scary time. I would say to all women, there’s no show without you. You can’t pour from an empty vessel,” Lynn emphasized, urging others to listen to their bodies when they signal distress. She will continue to be monitored by CUH for the next five years, but she now recognizes what truly matters in life.

The Echo Mini Marathon is not just a race; it’s a testament to resilience and community support. Lynn’s journey from a life-threatening condition to running for the very hospital that helped her is inspiring. To join this vital cause, register at www.echolive.ie/minimarathon/ and visit cuhcharity.ie to learn more about CUH Charity and share your fundraising story.

This urgent call to action comes as many women face similar health challenges. Lynn’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of community, awareness, and taking charge of one’s health. Join Lynn and make a difference today!